He warned that Ms von der Leyen’s Presidency has been bad for Ireland and she must not be re-elected to serve a second term.

Mr MacManus said:

“Ursula von der Leyen’s term in office has been bad for Ireland. She has moved to undermine Irish neutrality and her failure to stand up for the people of Gaza has been disgraceful.

“Sinn Féin are absolutely clear that she must not be re-elected for a second term as Commission President. Fine Gael’s MEPs have indicated their support for her. Their cosy relationship, as fellow members of the EPP, is shameful and not in Ireland’s interests. It is totally out of step with how the people of Ireland feel.

“When the Taoiseach meets with Ms von der Leyen today, he must send a strong message to her that Irish neutrality is not up for grabs. He must stand up against her push for the growing militarisation agenda of the EU. He must set out the clear view of the Irish people that we stand with the people of Gaza as they are subjected to an unthinkable genocide by Israel.

“Far from being a ‘new’ Taoiseach, Simon Harris has sat at cabinet for 8 years as part of a government that has failed to stand up for Ireland at an EU level and defend Irish neutrality.

“He has shown repeatedly that he is all spin and no substance. He must ensure today’s meeting is an opportunity to stand up for Ireland, not merely a photo op that continues to embolden Ursula von der Leyen’s damaging behaviour.”